Top 10 Car Dealer Consumer Tips

• Ask about the length of the warranty
If you’re buying a new or nearly new car from a dealer you should definitely ask about the length of the manufacturer’s warranty, or if this has run out, ask what length of warranty the dealer can offer you.
• Make sure you know what the warranty covers
Many people wrongly assume that their warranty will cover whatever they need fixed on their car. Make sure you know exactly what is and isn’t covered before you agree to buy the car in order to prevent any surprises further down the line.
• Do your homework on prices locally
If there are other dealers in your local area, take some time to research their prices for the makes and models of car you might be interested in. This will give you a rough indication of what you can expect to pay and compare prices from different dealerships.
• Don’t agree to any extras until you’ve researched them
Things like extended warranties are usually supplied by third parties so if your dealer offers you one, politely decline and do your own research as you’ll probably be able to get one much cheaper by going direct.
• Be aware of the on-the-road price
The price you agree for the car may not be the actual price you pay to drive it away. Many dealers will add extras on such as delivery charges so make sure you know the final price before you agree to buy the car.
• Try to stay cool
Even if you see your ideal car sitting in the showroom at a reasonable price, it pays not to show too much enthusiasm in front of the sales person. If you go in there telling them you love a particular car, they will know instantly that you’re not going to drive a hard bargain.
• Arrange your own finance
While it may seem more convenient just to arrange your finance through the dealer at the time, you could end up paying far more than you need to. If you’re planning on using finance to buy your car, ask your local bank and look online to compare deals.
• Don’t become a prisoner
You’ve probably heard tales from friends and family about spending a whole day in a car dealership haggling over price. Don’t let this happen to you; give yourself a strict time limit before you go in to sort something out and if you reach that point and haven’t struck a deal, make your excuses and leave.
• Find out about road tax and fuel consumption
What may seem like a good car at a decent price could end up costing you more than you think. It’s important to do your own research into road tax and fuel consumption before deciding to buy a particular car in order to avoid any nasty surprises once you’ve already bought it.
• Take your time over a decision
Buying a new car is a big investment and one that could prove very costly if you change your mind at a later date. If you’re not in any mad rush to buy a new car, make sure you do lots of research in order to get a vehicle you’re 100% happy with in terms of performance and price.